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An Introduction to Rolfing

An introductory guide to the art of Rolfing


The healing system known as Rolfing was devised by American Biological Chemist,
Ida Pauline Rolf in the early to mid 1950s. Originally known as Postural Release,
then later Structural Integration of the Human Body, Rolfing is a combination of
Chiropractic/Osteopathy and Bioenergetics. In 1971 she developed structural
integration as a method of manipulating soft tissue (fascia) with the aim of separating
them in order to initiate proper movement. Rolfing is a system for manipulating soft
tissue, realigning the body structure and harmonizing movement patterns in relation
to gravity. She was convinced that total health could be achieved only when the
energy field of the body is supported correctly by the gravity of the Earth. Connective
tissue can become tightly bound up and then restricts opposing muscles from
working independently from each other much in the way water, having crystallized,
forms hard, unyielding ice. Her practice aimed to separate bound up fascia by deeply
separating the fibers manually into straight vertical lines so as to loosen them up and
allow effective movement patterns. She believed that many illnesses such as
rounded shoulders or hunched backs resulted from poor posture. Clients with poor
posture use up vital energy leaving them open to disease.
Clients are often advised that a course of ten 75 to 90 minute sessions are needed
to gradually unlock the whole body, beginning with the muscles that regulate and
facilitate breathing. . The client will usually be lying prone on a table throughout the
session, though occasionally may be asked to assume a sitting position. They are
then guided through specific movements. The practioner manipulates the fascia until
they have returned to their original length by applying gentle pressure with their
hands, elbows and sometimes even knees to loosen muscles. Unlike other forms of
massage, no oils or lotions are used. A specific goal is decided for each session,
with an overall goal for cumulative results. The standard series may be completed at
the rate of one session per week, or spread out over a longer period of up to six
months.

Some clients may experience of pain, but over the decades it has evolved into a
much gentler process. After sessions clients reportedly gain in height due to standing
straighter and soft-tissue bodily asymmetries disappearing. Rolfing teaches healthier
movement habits, can relieve joint & muscle pain including back pain, enhances
performance and self-image, and improves balance, coordination and mobility, can
treat and help prevent sports injuries and repetitive strain injuries. Studies have
shown that Rolfing has improved symptoms in patients with cerebral palsy and
chronic fatigue syndrome.
Clients suffering from kidney, liver or intestinal diseases, menstruating or pregnant
women or anyone who may have had procedures or diseases affecting the abdomen
should consult their general practitioner before undergoing Rolfing therapy.

Crystals known to assist Rolfing include; Chakra Stones, Amethyst, Sodalite,


Turquoise/Turquesite, Green Aventurine, Citrine, Carnelian, Red Jasper /Garnet,
Morion, Tiger Iron, Staurolite, Boji Stone, Bloodstone, Silver, Pyrite, Lodestone,
Orange Aventurine, Hematite, Clear Quartz, Azurite, Petrified Wood, Lepidolite,
Zoiste, Fuschite, Apophyllite (Green), Spurrite, Apophyllite (Clear), and Variscite.

Raine Hilton
www.goodvibesgirl.co.uk goodvibesgirl@live.com

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